CMPD reports more domestic violence calls since start of outbreak

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said there has been an increase in two types of crime lately, while MEDIC said they are dealing with less emergency response calls.

According to CMPD, in March there has been an 80% increase in shootings into homes or other occupied dwellings. Police also said there has been an 18% increase in domestic violence calls.

Officials said they got 517 more domestic violence calls in March 2020 than March 2019.

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Officers can’t say with certainty that it’s because of the order for people to stay at home, but they are continuing to answer calls and also suggest that there are other resources out there, including Safe Alliance.

The director of Safe Alliance, Karen Parker, told Channel 9′s Mark Becker that she saw a 40 percent increase in calls to their hotline in early March.

“We know that domestic violence is all about power and control, so that when a victim is trapped inside a house with a perpetrator that gives the perpetrator the ability to have more control over a victim and it can be very dangerous,” said Parker.

Parker said their shelter is full and had to actually move some people into hotels because of social distancing. They don’t want that to discourage anyone who needs help in a domestic violence situation from calling 911.

If you or someone you know needs help, people can call Safe Alliance at 980-771-HOPE.

Paramedics on the frontlines taking precautions against coronavirus

With more people at home, MEDIC said 911 calls have actually decreased, especially for calls about car crashes.

From March 18 to 26, MEDIC averaged about 280 transports a day, compared to about 321 transports a day, the same time in 2019.

>>> Click HERE for how Channel 9’s Gina Esposito explains the extra precautions MEDIC is taking when responding to calls.

COVID-19 Data: NC to hit peak health resources April 23; SC April 26 COVID-19 Data: NC to hit peak health resources April 23; SC April 26

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